Real Madrid Faces Key Decision as Vinicius Returns from Suspension
Real Madrid has every reason to celebrate as they head into the second international break of the season. Following the resumption of club football after the first break, Los Blancos have been in excellent form, achieving a remarkable eight consecutive victories across all competitions.
However, Coach Jose Mourinho will encounter a significant selection challenge once the season resumes later this month. According to reports from MARCA, Mourinho faces a major dilemma with Vinicius now available for selection after completing his four-match domestic suspension.
Vinicius has only scored once this season. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
The performance of the Real Madrid frontline has been impressive in Vinicius’ absence, with players like Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Yan Diomande stepping up their game.
Vinicius Jr. is aware that he may have lost his place in the starting eleven. However, his potential to be a game-changer, given his reputation as one of the world’s top players, means he cannot be easily overlooked when he becomes eligible for selection.
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This situation lies at the heart of Mourinho’s concerns. He must find a way to reintegrate the Brazilian international into the squad without disrupting the newfound harmony Real Madrid has achieved in recent weeks.
Proposing Vinicius as a Central Striker
An intriguing proposal regarding Vinicius’ role has been introduced by former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santiago Canizares.
Could Vinicius excel as a central striker? (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Canizares has recommended that Mourinho consider using Vinicius in the striker role instead of Kylian Mbappe. Canizares believes this change could bring better balance to the team. He noted that Mbappe often prefers to play wide, while Vinicius could excel in a central position where his skills could be fully utilized.
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While this may not be the perfect solution, it is a potential approach that could mirror Barcelona’s effective strategy, which has seen them succeed this season without a traditional number nine, featuring Raphinha in a similar capacity.
Vinicius has gathered adequate experience playing centrally, having taken up that role 82 times throughout his career, where he scored 42 goals and provided 18 assists, thus establishing himself as a viable candidate for the position.
